Camo Fashion

Autumn's Toughest Trend

We are going for sartorially conscious, remember. Not George of the Jungle.

ATTENTION! Camouflage fashion is back. In a big old way. Here's my guide to nailing one of the key Autumn/Winter trends without looking like G.I. Joe...

DISCLAIMER: Do not wear all of the below together. I beg of you. Pick one statement piece and layer up or mix and match with workwear/utility styling, or simply, throw together with a pair of jeans. We are going for sartorially conscious, remember. Not George of the Jungle.

Shirts/TeesFirst up, I implore you all to investigate the Hamilton 1883/Nick Wooster collaboration. Hamilton has been a purveyor of the quality shirt since, erm, 1883 and his hook-up wth Manhattan style guru Nick Wooster (this guy's credentials are impressive: his style CV reels off the retail's top positions) is a juxtaposition of beautifully tailored Oxford and Chambray shirts with bad-ass camo contrast. Think James Bond meets Sly Stallone. Granted, you may need his Royal Slyness' bank balance to afford too many, as they start at $265, but there are damn fine and only available from Park and Bond so I guarantee will sell out. So radio for immediate back-up. Or, you know, just click on this link. Whichever you fancy, really. My personal favourite is the camo panel Oxford sportshirt, which white body collar and cuffs, giving the illusion of a plain shirt until the jacket comes off. And then: PARTY TIME.

For those not quite ready to commit to a full frontal cam attack (or invest nearly 200 nicker), a savvy way to sneak a bit of camo into your wardrobe is with a sneaky contrast front pocket. This contrast pocket shirt and vest from ASOS are perfect low risk intro pieces at just £12 each.

WatchesIf you're feeling bold, this ASOS printed digital watch is bang on trend for a sneaky camo wrist flash. Meanwhile, AskMen favourites Uniform Wares' 100 Series (above) — as the name suggests — is utility styled perfection and available in a range of nicely dirgey army greens and greys which will survive long beyond this season.

BagsThis Herschell Camo backpack is a great example of brands veering away from traditional prints for a more streetwear-influenced look. And if all this clashing camo is starting to make your eyes bleed, this Herschell heritage backpack in slightly more subtle army khaki is also heartily recommended.

JacketsSTEP AWAY FROM THE EPAULETS AND BADGES. You are not Chris Martin. As stated above, you need to keep your camo fresh and trend-aware. So, avoid traditional army stylings and, instead, mix it up for a more modern feel. Conveniently, I have just the thing. Plus, Reclaimed's vintage army jacket with aztec trim (above) is very decent value at £58.

Now, if Denim & Supply by Ralph Lauren isn't on your radar yet, then is SHOULD be. With an organic, vintage, "worn" feel to the brand, Mr Lauren's newest member of the family is loaded with wearable, timeless staples, and lo and behold, their camo army jacket might be the best example we've seen yet.

ShoesOK, so camouflage shoes. A bit of a minefield, if you excuse the pun (actually, don't excuse the pun. That took me ages). Camo brogues, soles, contrast; they're all there and largely a bit hideous. I suggest if you going to venture down this road, keep it street. Strictly trainers. The more simple, the better, so retro Vans are ideal. Feeling a touch braver? Then these Ylati Camo hi-tops (above) are a bit mischievous. And, of course Converse are always a reliable option. Their recent geo camo collection with Gorillaz is about as street as most of us can possibly get.